Josh G. (bhweekly) - , reviewed Onward: How Starbucks Fought for Its Life without Losing Its Soul on + 20 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 4
I got this book with hopes he would discuss the complexities of running Starbucks as its CEO. Instead he spends most of the book heaping praise on everyone and discussing his "vision" for the company, with very little on the nuts and bolts or the job. He's also vague at best when discussing some of the bad times (for example, firing the former CEO) and instead just keeps rehashing a Kumbaya type vision for the future. Disappointing.
Carol N. (carolpwv) - , reviewed Onward: How Starbucks Fought for Its Life without Losing Its Soul on + 47 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 3
This book was not what I expected. Howard Schultz (Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Starbucks) writes only about his goals and vision of the company. It was very difficult to follow because of some of the flashbacks and way too many "Chiefs" of the organization. He should have added more human stories; i.e., the work as a barista, training of their employees, franchises, nuts and bolts of the operation, etc. I found the book boring.
Helpful Score: 2
Reads like a 300+ page company pep rally. Unless you can really appreciate corporate ra ra, skip this one.